Young trees are narrow and conic in shape, but begin to grow a wider, deeper canopy after attaining a trunk diameter of 30–50 cm.

In mature specimens, the trunk is generally straight or slightly tapered and clear for 15–20 m before branching into a spreading canopy up to 35 m in diameter.

Leaves in the shade, of juvenile trees, and of individuals growing in wetter regions, tend to be larger.

Strong root systems enable mature trees to withstand cyclones and seed rapidly into gaps.

The wood is a cream to gold colour (mature heartwood is a lustrous brown) and much appreciated in the timber industry, particularly as a surface veneer.

Smoke from the resin is used as a black dye for hair, clothes and tattoos, and the leaves are used in traditional medicine.